15 Syrian Kabsa-Inspired Holiday Recipes for Spiced Rice Thanksgiving Feasts

Classic Chicken Kabsa With Almonds and Raisins

Classic Chicken Kabsa is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that embodies the essence of Syrian cuisine. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, spiced basmati rice, and a delightful medley of nuts and dried fruits, making it a festive centerpiece for any holiday gathering. The harmony of spices and the sweetness of raisins, along with the crunch of almonds, enhances the overall appeal of this dish.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
2. Add the whole chicken and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in chopped tomatoes and all the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, and salt). Cook for a few minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add rinsed basmati rice to the pot, stirring gently. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. While the rice cooks, roast slivered almonds in a dry skillet until golden.
7. Once rice is done, fluff with a fork, and serve topped with the chicken, raisins, and roasted almonds. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Lamb Kabsa With Spiced Nuts and Dried Fruits

Lamb Kabsa With Spiced Nuts and Dried Fruits is a hearty and aromatic dish that celebrates the richness of Syrian cuisine. This delightful variation of the classic Kabsa uses tender pieces of lamb simmered with fragrant rice, complemented by an assortment of spiced nuts and sweet dried fruits, making it a perfect festive offering for special occasions.

Cooking Steps:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add the lamb pieces and brown on all sides, followed by the chopped tomatoes and all the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, and salt). Cook for a few minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for about 40 minutes until the lamb is tender.
4. Remove the lamb and set aside. Add rinsed basmati rice to the pot, stirring gently. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
5. While the rice is cooking, toast the slivered almonds and cashews in a dry skillet until golden and fragrant.
6. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and serve topped with the lamb, raisins, and the toasted nuts. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Vegetarian Kabsa With Seasonal Root Vegetables

Vegetarian Kabsa With Seasonal Root Vegetables is a vibrant and wholesome dish that brings the flavors of Syrian cuisine to the plant-based table. This colorful variant features a medley of seasonal root vegetables, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, making it an excellent choice for a festive gathering or a wholesome family meal.

Cooking Steps:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add diced seasonal root vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips) and continue to cook for a few minutes.
3. Stir in chopped tomatoes and all the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, and salt), cooking for an additional few minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add rinsed basmati rice, stir gently, then cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice and vegetables are tender.
5. While the rice is cooking, toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet until golden.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, serve topped with raisins and toasted almonds, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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Seafood Kabsa With Fresh Herbs and Lemon

Seafood Kabsa With Fresh Herbs and Lemon is a delightful and aromatic dish that showcases the rich flavors of the sea, perfectly infused with traditional spices. This version of Kabsa incorporates a variety of fresh seafood, such as shrimp and fish, along with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon, making it a perfect centerpiece for festive occasions and a unique twist on the classic rice dish.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add diced bell pepper and chopped tomatoes, cooking for a few minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, and salt), and mix well before pouring in the vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, add rinsed basmati rice, and gently stir. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the mixed seafood on top and press gently into the rice. Cook until the seafood is cooked through and opaque.
6. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, fluff with a fork, and serve garnished with fresh parsley and cilantro.

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Spicy Beef Kabsa With Pomegranate Molasses

Spicy Beef Kabsa With Pomegranate Molasses is a flavorful adaptation of the traditional Kabsa, a beloved Middle Eastern rice dish. This version features tender beef cooked in a rich blend of spices and enhanced with the sweet and tangy flavor of pomegranate molasses. It’s perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations, offering a unique and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish.

Cooking Steps:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add cubed beef, browning it on all sides before mixing in diced bell pepper and chopped tomatoes, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, and salt) along with pomegranate molasses, and pour in the vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, add rinsed basmati rice, and stir gently. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

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Pumpkin Kabsa With Sage and Cinnamon

Pumpkin Kabsa With Sage and Cinnamon is a delightful twist on the classic Kabsa dish, incorporating the warm flavors of pumpkin, aromatic sage, and fragrant cinnamon. This festive recipe not only provides a comforting and hearty meal but also captures the essence of the season, making it perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions.

Cooking Steps:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they are translucent.
2. Add cubed pumpkin and cook until it starts to soften.
3. Stir in the spices (cinnamon, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and salt) and pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
4. Add rinsed basmati rice, stir gently, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped fresh sage, and serve warm.

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Quinoa Kabsa With Grilled Vegetables

Quinoa Kabsa With Grilled Vegetables is a vibrant and nutritious take on the traditional Kabsa dish, perfect for those seeking a gluten-free option. This colorful recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, featuring protein-rich quinoa and a variety of grilled vegetables that add both flavor and texture. Ideal for holiday meals or gatherings, this dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the vegetables until tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the onions and minced garlic until translucent.
4. Stir in the spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon) and cook for another minute.
5. Add rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff quinoa with a fork, fold in the grilled vegetables, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Turkey Kabsa With Cranberries and Pecans

Turkey Kabsa With Cranberries and Pecans is a festive and flavorful twist on the traditional Kabsa dish, blending succulent turkey with the delightful sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. This dish not only brings a warm, inviting aroma to the holiday table but also provides a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by family and friends.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the turkey thighs to the pot, seasoning with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the basmati rice, dried cranberries, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
5. Stir in the chopped pecans and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Mushroom Kabsa With Caramelized Onions

Mushroom Kabsa With Caramelized Onions is a delightful vegetarian take on the traditional Kabsa, showcasing the earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions. This dish is not only aromatic and satisfying but also perfect for holiday gatherings, where it can serve as a centerpiece for those seeking a hearty and flavorful meal without meat.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and caramelize the sliced onions until golden brown and soft.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot, cooking until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Season with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
4. Stir in the basmati rice and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Harissa-Spiced Kabsa With Grilled Shrimp

Harissa-Spiced Kabsa With Grilled Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the rich spices of traditional Kabsa with a spicy harissa twist, perfectly complemented by juicy grilled shrimp. This savory meal is ideal for holiday celebrations, offering an enticing aroma and a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Stir in harissa paste, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and mix well.
3. Add basmati rice to the pot, then pour in vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked.
5. While the rice cooks, marinate the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and extra harissa, then grill them until just cooked through.
6. Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork, top with grilled shrimp, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Zaatar Kabsa With Roasted Cauliflower

Zaatar Kabsa With Roasted Cauliflower is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings a Middle Eastern twist to the traditional Kabsa. The combination of fragrant basmati rice and the earthy flavors of zaatar, along with perfectly roasted cauliflower, creates a vibrant vegetarian option that is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, zaatar, and salt, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, zaatar, and salt, mixing well before adding the basmati rice to the pot.
4. Pour vegetable broth into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork, serve topped with roasted cauliflower, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Saffron Infused Kabsa With Grilled Chicken

Saffron Infused Kabsa With Grilled Chicken is a luxurious and aromatic version of the traditional Kabsa, elevating the dish with the rich flavor of saffron and the smoky essence of grilled chicken. This delightful meal combines fragrant basmati rice with a blend of spices, enhanced by the addition of saffron, making it ideal for holiday celebrations or any festive gathering.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a small bowl, soak saffron in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Marinate the chicken with olive oil, salt, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Grill until cooked through and golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in the soaked saffron (with its water) and the remaining spices; mix well before adding the basmati rice.
5. Pour vegetable broth into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
6. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork, serve topped with grilled chicken, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Wild Rice Kabsa With Smoked Sausage

Wild Rice Kabsa With Smoked Sausage is a unique twist on the traditional Kabsa dish, combining nutty wild rice with the rich, smoky flavors of sausage. This hearty and flavorful dish makes for a perfect holiday meal, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. The blend of spices paired with the smokiness of the sausage creates a delightful feast that is sure to please your guests during any festive occasion.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
3. Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt, mixing well before adding the wild rice.
4. Pour vegetable broth into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the wild rice with a fork, serve hot, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Black Lentil Kabsa With Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Black Lentil Kabsa with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a nutritious and hearty variation of the traditional Kabsa dish, perfect for festive gatherings. This dish features protein-packed black lentils paired with aromatic spices, creating a satisfying meal that is both flavorful and wholesome. Topped with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, it’s sure to impress your guests and add a delightful twist to your holiday menu.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Stir in black lentils, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt; mix well before adding vegetable broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. While the lentils are cooking, mix plain yogurt with minced garlic and lemon juice in a separate bowl to prepare the garlic yogurt sauce.
5. Fluff the lentils with a fork, serve hot, and top with the garlic yogurt sauce and fresh cilantro for garnish.

Sweet Potato Kabsa With Marshmallows and Pecans

Sweet Potato Kabsa with Marshmallows and Pecans is a festive twist on the traditional Kabsa that adds a delightful sweetness and texture to the dish. This vibrant recipe features roasted sweet potatoes combined with fragrant spices, topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings and a delicious side to complement any meal.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and half of the cumin and cinnamon. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in the basmati rice, remaining spices, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Gently fold in the roasted sweet potatoes, followed by marshmallows and pecans. Cover for a few minutes to allow the marshmallows to melt slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this festive dish!